Property Caretaking from a Property Owner’s Perspective

 Over the years many of our subscribers have asked to learn more about caretaking from the perspective of the property owners who advertise their positions in The Caretaker Gazette, including how they select their caretakers and housesitters.  Gary Dunn, Publisher of the Gazette, recently interviewed a Northern California property owner who has advertised for caretakers in the Gazette. We hope this interview will provide prospective caretakers and housesitters with some valuable insights into the property caretaking experience from the perspective of the property owner.

Gary: What is the application process for your caretaker position?

Property Owner:  We always ask that prospective caretakers first read our ad as published in The Caretaker Gazette carefully so they understand the position and what is required. At a minimum, we always ask for a resume and references. If someone feels they are qualified for our position, the next step is to put together an application packet and mail it, fax it or email it to us (the Property Owner). When the completed applications are received by us they are reviewed by my wife and me for consideration. After our review, including contacting references, we schedule interviews with the most qualified candidates. We prefer all prospective caretakers selected for an interview to meet us in person, on our property. We feel the “in person” aspect of the interview is key as it lets both parties meet and gives both us and the prospective caretakers a chance to evaluate and get to know each other.  It also gives the caretakers a chance to understand what is expected and what they are getting into for our caretaker position. We do our best to share all information so that the prospective caretakers can get a full picture of the caretaking position before accepting the position.

Gary: What sort of caretakers have you employed and where do your caretakers come from? 

Property Owner: In the past few years our caretakers have included a family, two different couples, and a single male and a single woman. Years ago we used to advertise by word of mouth but we've found that our ads for caretakers in The Caretaker Gazette have brought us the best and most qualified applicants. 

Gary: What kinds of things would disqualify potential caretakers from taking your position?

Property Owner:  Because we want caretakers who are honest, caring, hard working and environmentally safe, we prefer non-smokers, non-drinkers and no drug users. We often get asked if applicants can bring their pets with them. Unfortunately, this is not an environment that is conducive for domestic animals so we have a no pets policy.

Gary: What are the duties and responsibilities for your caretaker position?

Property Owner: Our caretakers are required to maintain our home (including security and mechanical systems), organic vegetable garden and raised beds, fruit trees, shrub beds, perennial and annual gardens, pond, and various odds and ends around our 100-plus acre property. We have a local man who takes care of the cattle and horses but our caretakers who are interested can learn and assist him. It's been a great learning experience for many of our caretakers.

Gary: How are the caretakers compensated? 

Property Owner: Free housing in a small private cottage separate from our home is provided along with all paid utilities. A four wheel drive vehicle and canoe are available for the caretakers to use. We always prefer caretakers who can commit for a year so we negotiate an annual salary plus health care benefits. The salary depends on how much experience the caretakers bring to the position. There are opportunities to earn additional income here and locally by painting, remodeling, landscaping, and various and sundry odd jobs.

Gary: What do your caretakers do on their days off?

Property Owner: Most of our caretakers go into town to shop and run errands on their days off, go canoeing or fishing in the large river that runs by our property, or hike, mountain bike and cross country ski on the nearby mountain trails. If the caretakers are experienced horse people they can ride on their days off. Our caretakers can also visit nearby Shasta-Trinity National Forest and Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Gary: Thank you for taking the time to share your experiences as a property owner who has used The Caretaker Gazette to find the best caretakers for your property.

Property Owner: Happy to do it, Gary.